Author
Judie Mae Wadwad Ayabo*
Agbannawag National High School, Tabuk, Kalinga, Philippines
Abstract
This study aims to examine the unique regional accent of I-Kalinga students and professionals in speaking the Filipino language, particularly the influence of their first language, geography, and sociolinguistic factors on their manner of pronunciation. The researcher employed a descriptive-qualitative approach involving fifty (50) I-Kalinga participants who are studying or working in cities or provinces where Kalinga is not the dominant dialect. Data were collected through audio recordings, interviews, word lists, and the reading of a passage. The analysis was conducted using thematic analysis, phonological analysis, and a standard qualitative rubric to accurately determine pronunciation, stress, pitch, intonation, and level of speaking proficiency. The findings revealed a clear influence of the first language on the participants’ pronunciation, stress, pitch, and intonation in Filipino. Although participants demonstrated the ability to adjust their accent depending on the situation, their regional identity remained evident. Most participants were classified at the “Proficient” to “Moderate” level, while a few were categorized as “Highly Proficient” or “Limited.” The regional accent of the I-Kalinga is not merely a mode of speech but an important aspect of linguistic and cultural identity. The study also highlights the need to implement policies that promote culturally responsive pedagogy and accent-inclusive programs in the teaching of Filipino.
Keywords: I-Kalinga, Filipino language, regional accent, suprasegmental features, phonological patterns, language identity.
*Corresponding author/ Email: judiemaeguiyaan@gmail.com
DOI: http://doi.org/10.69651/PIJHSS0502991
Recommended citation:
Ayabo, J. M. W. (2026). A study on the unique regional accent of the I-Kalinga in speaking the Filipino language: A comprehensive analysis. Pantao (The International Journal of the Humanities and Social Sciences) 5 (2), 1466-1476. http://doi.org/10.69651/PIJHSS0502991
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